奉命

奉命 means 'on orders' or 'by command,' typically referring to actions taken in accordance with a formal directive, especially from an authority figure. It emphasizes obedience and official responsibility.

The character 奉 (fèng) originally meant 'to offer' or 'to present,' and later came to mean 'to obey' or 'to follow.' 命 (mìng) means 'order' or 'command.' Together, they convey the idea of acting under an official order or instruction.

奉命 is commonly used in formal or official contexts, such as military, government, or bureaucratic settings. It can also appear in historical or literary texts to describe someone carrying out a task based on a superior's command. The phrase reflects traditional Chinese values of respect for authority and duty.